Wedding Flowers for Brides Who Don't Love Flowers

I'm a huge flower fan, so I filled my wedding with common wedding flowers like peonies and orchids. But not everyone digs the bridal flower look, so here are some alternative petals you may want to consider.

I'm a huge flower fan, so I filled my wedding with common wedding flowers like peonies and orchids. But not everyone digs the bridal flower look, so here are some alternative petals you may want to consider.

Pincushion Proteas

There's nothing soft and girly about this flower. In fact, it looks like it might stick you (hence the pincushion part of the name). They come in vibrant reds, oranges, yellows, and pinks (and some of the individual blooms have a couple different colors in them) and they lend an exotic look to wedding reception tables.

Photo: Jupiterimages

Cockscomb Celosia

When these are clustered together, they can look like frilly hydrangea…or a brain. The reason I like them, though, is that they have a velvety texture that makes them more fabric-like than flowery. They're available in the same colors proteas come in but also in purples, burgundies, and even lime green.

Photo: Dynamic Graphics

Gloriosa Lilies

Sure, they're still lilies, but with a resemblance to flames, they're so not like Casablanca or calla varieties. The multihued look means your wedding centerpieces can be made entirely of this one bloom, and it'll still be interesting (bonus: sticking to one flower will save you money on your arrangements).

Photo: Stockbyte

Birds of Paradise

You can't argue with the name--these flowers look like birds. And not just any birds--ones you'd find in a tropical land. So if you're more of an animal-lover than a flower fanatic, these might be your best bet for blooms.

Photo: Brand X Pictures

Which of the above flowers do you like best? Or do you prefer traditional wedding flowers? Or are you skipping flowers altogether?